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Monday, 15 March 2010

Bruised D'Arcy not ruled out

Ireland have not ruled centre Gordon D'Arcy out of contention for the RBS 6 Nations clash against Scotland next Saturday.

D'Arcy limped off during the first half of Ireland's 27-12 victory over Wales on Saturday.

He suffered deep bruising above his left knee and is currently being monitored and treated by Ireland's medical team.

Wing Keith Earls, who moved into midfield to replace D'Arcy and scored two tries, is expected to be fit following treatment for tightened calf muscles.

And Ireland also anticipate that flanker David Wallace will be available. He received an accidental scratch to his eye during the Wales game.

Ireland will secure their fifth Triple Crown in seven seasons if they beat Scotland at Croke Park.

The Irish will bring down the curtain on their four-year temporary residency at Croke Park and could end the championship on a triumphant note.

Coach Declan Kidney has urged his players to view the clash as a final.

"For us Saturday is a final. Being a bit older than the players I came through two decades when we never won anything," he said.

"We're playing Scotland next week in a one-off Test match which we see as a final.

"The GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) have been hugely supportive of us while we've been at Croke Park and maybe we can pay them due respect by playing our last match here as if it's a final.

"The Scots are known for ruining Irish parties and they'll want to do that once more.

"The great thing about the Six Nations is that no two games are ever alike and they all present different challenges."